Waa and the Seven Sisters

John Patten is a Bundjalung / Yorta Yorta man on his father's side, and a descendant of First Fleet convicts via his mother. An educator and artist, he takes great joy in sharing knowledge with visitors to Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre.

This summer Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre at Melbourne Museum presents a follow-up to our successful Tiddalik the Thirsty Frog theatre show, with a local Kulin creation story – Waa and the Seven Sisters.

Nikki Ashby performing as the Seventh Sister.Source: Museum Victoria

The story tells how the Kulin peoples (the traditional owners of Melbourne and surrounding areas) were given the secret of fire by their creator, Bunjil, who often takes the form of an eagle. The story focuses on how the gift of fire was given to seven old women, who instead of sharing with the rest of the Kulin decided to keep fire for themselves. Thus, the Kulin's protector Waa (the Crow) conjured a plan to ensure the secret of fire is shared with everyone.

Uraine Mastrosavas performing as Waa the Crow.Source: Museum Victoria

The show's cast this year are Uraine Mastrosavas, who we are very pleased to have back with us, after having been part of last year's Tiddalik the Thirsty Frog shows, and Nikki Ashby, an actor, dancer and choreographer. The show is directed by Michael Camilleri.

A dramatic moment on the set of Waa and the Seven Sisters.Source: Museum Victoria

Audiences are a major part of the show, making up part of the cast and interacting with the performers both on and off stage. There is plenty of music, singing, laughing and dancing.

A young member of the audience performing as Jert-Jert.Source: Museum Victoria

Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre also has a free summer activity running in the Birrarung gallery where children and their families can make and colour in their own Bunjil the Wedge-tailed Eagle glider, decorated with traditional Victorian Koorie art motifs, to take home.

Waa and the Seven Sisters runs until 28 January at 11:00 AM, noon and 1:00pm, every day except Saturdays. Adults $10, children $5, MV Members receive discount admission.

Comments (3)

Sorry for the error, Timothy. All fixed now. Thanks for letting us know.

Cory
17 February, 2013 12:18

I have long been led to believe there are no crows native to Victoria. I have been led to believe there are only Ravens native to Victoria especially in the south east and happy to believe that the translation is correct in labelling Waa a Crow however if there are in fact no Crows then would it not be correct in translation to have Waa be labelled a Raven. I know this is semantics but I would really appreciate clarification please?